Frasada raises funds for childhood cancer research

Frasada Salon and Day Spa in Oceanside kicked off its month-long “Cut-a-thon” to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s Children’s Health Initiative and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The effort began in September and will wind down Oct. 27.

The month started with a marathon days of haircuts on Sept. 27, after which the salon has been accepting donations since. Funds raised will help in research, free education and support for children and families and advocacy efforts. Frasada staffer Kayla Gliptis helped call all of the salon and spa’s regular customers to get the word out about the event.

One of the salon and spa’s regular clients reached out to owner Gabby Concialdi six years ago about doing the full-month event. The goal of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Children’s Health initiative is to raise $100 million. It was unclear how much has been raised to date.

“It’s nice to be able to give back and feel like you’re making a difference,” Concialdi said. This year’s event was a return after a one-year hiatus because of the coronavirus pandemic. Raffle baskets with hair and skin products were also raffled off to support the cause and complement the Cut-a-thon. According to Concialdi, the baskets range in value from $100 to $400 dollars.

The hairdressers came in on one of their off days to put on the charity event and said they were excited to do so. Arlene Serrano, of Lynbrook, has worked at Frasada for 14 years. “It feels good for us to give back and help these children,” Serrano said. “I never thought I would be able to use my career to help a cause like this.”

To donate, go to www.lis.org/lis-childrens-initiative-cures-and-cares-children.